Lunar Capcoms: The Vital Link Between the Orion Spacecraft and Earth

Why It Matters

Capcoms are a critical safety and operations link that translate complex technical guidance into clear, timely directives for astronauts, directly impacting mission success and risk management on high-stakes lunar flights. Effective capcom performance reduces communication errors and operational delays, bolstering confidence in Artemis II’s crewed lunar return.

Summary

Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jenni Gibbons describes her role as a capcom (Capsule Communicator) supporting NASA’s Artemis II, serving as the primary liaison between Mission Control and the Orion spacecraft. As a certified ISS and Artemis II capcom, she synthesizes flight-control team data into concise voice calls to the crew, working in multi-shift rotations to provide continuous support across mission phases. The role demands deep systems knowledge, clear, efficient communication, and rigorous training to minimize back-and-forth and ensure crew safety and mission execution. Gibbons says training has improved her skills as both a crewmember and a ground-support specialist, and she looks forward to supporting colleagues during the lunar flyby.

Original Description

2026-02-19 – Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jenni Gibbons explains her role as a capsule communicator, or capcom, for the Artemis II mission. The first Canadian certified in this role, she describes how capcoms are the primary link between Mission Control and the spacecraft, working in shifts to provide the crew with critical guidance during their mission to the Moon.

Version française : https://youtu.be/m2Rqk0KHM3s

Credits: CSA, NASA

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